Leaving a legacy: Being remembered in your own words

Published On: 7th December 2023

Life is a collection of moments, both big and small.  We don’t get to decide which of those moments are most meaningful to our loved ones.   

That’s why it can be incredibly beautiful to pass on the stories and experiences that have shaped you. These aren’t always grand tales or monumental events; they can be the everyday stories that make you who you are. 

Just imagine your family reading and rereading about your childhood memories, your school days, the moments that made you laugh, and the lessons life has taught you. These are the little pieces, when put together, create a bigger picture of who you’ve become. 

So, here’s an invitation for you.

Find a quiet spot, grab a cup of tea and a notebook, or open up that email. The questions we have here are prompts, keys to unlock the stories that lie within. They’re a chance for you to share a bit of yourself, your experiences, and what you hold dear. 

By sharing these answers, you’re not just leaving behind a legacy. You’re letting your family in on your life in a way that’s not just ‘Grandpa’ or ‘mum’.   

It’s a small, heartfelt gift that says, “This is me, this is my life, and I want you to know.” 

Life and experiences: 

1. What is your earliest childhood memory? 
2. Describe your family’s home when you were a child. What memories do you have of it? 
3. Can you share a story about your hometown or where you grew up? What was it like? 
4. Can you describe your school days? What was your favourite subject or teacher? 
5. Who were your childhood friends, and what adventures did you have together? 
6. Describe a time in your youth when you got into trouble. 
7. How did you meet your spouse or partner, and what was your first impression? 
8. What was your first job, and what do you remember most about it? 
9. Describe a special place from your past that holds cherished memories. 
10. What was your proudest achievement in life? 
11. Were there any particularly challenging times in your life, and how did you overcome them? 
12. Is there a specific lesson or piece of advice you learned from your parents or grandparents that has stuck with you? 

Beliefs and values: 

1. What are your core values, and how have they guided your decisions in life? 
2. How has your spirituality or belief system evolved over the years? 
3. Can you share a personal philosophy or motto that you live by? 
4. What role has faith or religion played in your life, if any? 
5. Are there any social or political causes that you are passionate about? 

Regrets and lessons: 

1. Reflect on a decision or choice you made that you later regretted. What did you learn from it? 
2. Is there a moment when you wish you had taken more risks in life? What held you back? 
3. Have you ever had a situation where you underestimated your own abilities or potential? 
4. Can you think of a time when you wished you had apologised or reconciled with someone you had a falling-out with? 
5. What is one thing you would do differently if you could go back in time? 

Likes and dislikes: 

1. What are some of your favourite books, movies, or songs? 
2. Do you have any hobbies or interests that bring you joy? 
3. Describe your favourite type of food or meal. 
4. Is there a specific place or activity that always makes you feel happy or content? 
5. What is something you dislike or find annoying? 

Family and relationships: 

1. What do you consider the most important qualities in a friend or family member? 
2. Are there any family traditions or celebrations that are particularly meaningful to you? 
3. What is your advice for maintaining strong and lasting relationships with loved ones? 

Memorable moments: 

1. Share a funny or heartwarming story from your past that still brings a smile to your face. 
2. What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever visited, and what made it special? 
3. Can you recall a moment when you felt truly inspired or touched by an act of kindness? 

Life changes and adaptations: 

1. How has your daily routine changed over the years, and what adjustments have you made? 
2. How do you think the world has changed the most during your lifetime? 
3. Can you describe a major shift in your career or personal life that required adaptation? 
4. What advice would you give to younger generations for navigating life’s changes and challenges? 

Reflections on ageing: 

1. How do you feel about ageing, and what are your thoughts on growing older? 
2. Are there any goals or dreams you still hope to achieve in your later years? 
3. What do you think is the key to maintaining a positive outlook as you age? 
4. What legacy or lessons would you like to pass on to your family and future generations? 

Take a moment, and imagine you had the answers to these questions… written by your own grandparents.  Holding them in your hands today. 

What would that mean to you?   

You can create that same moment for your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren.   

All you need is a something nice to drink and a notebook. 

If you are interested in recording a digital legacy you can also explore Avalon’s LifeLocker, a free online tool that lets you record your memories, create a bucket list, and write your life story. Avalon Funeral Plan holders can also store important documents, dictate their story, and assign keyholders to ensure loved ones can access everything when the time comes.